28622, Elk Park, North Carolina Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 28622, Elk Park, North Carolina is 48 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 75.55 percent of the residents in 28622 has some form of health insurance. 49.48 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 43.53 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase. Military veterans should know that percent of the residents in the ZIP Code of 28622 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 384 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28622. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 717 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,166 health care providers accessible to residents in 28622, Elk Park, North Carolina.

The analysis below assesses the landscape of hypertension management within ZIP Code 28622, focusing on Elk Park, North Carolina. This evaluation considers primary care accessibility, physician-to-patient ratios, notable practices, telemedicine integration, and the availability of mental health resources, all factors that contribute to effective hypertension control. The goal is to provide a comprehensive overview for residents and healthcare stakeholders.

Elk Park, nestled within the 28622 ZIP code, presents a unique challenge due to its rural nature. Access to healthcare, especially primary care physicians, is often a critical concern. The physician-to-patient ratio serves as a crucial indicator of accessibility. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments and potentially delayed diagnoses and treatment for conditions like hypertension. Accurate data on the precise physician-to-patient ratio within Elk Park requires careful analysis of available physician listings, patient demographics, and practice size. Publicly available data from sources like the North Carolina Medical Board and the U.S. Census Bureau, when cross-referenced, can provide a reasonable estimate.

Standout practices in the area are those demonstrating a commitment to comprehensive hypertension management. These practices typically employ a multi-faceted approach. This includes regular blood pressure screenings, patient education on lifestyle modifications (diet, exercise, and smoking cessation), and medication management. Electronic health records (EHRs) are vital for tracking patient data, facilitating communication between providers, and generating reminders for follow-up appointments. Practices that actively participate in quality improvement initiatives, such as those promoted by the American Heart Association or the American Medical Association, are likely to demonstrate better patient outcomes. The presence of certified hypertension specialists within a practice is also a significant indicator of expertise.

Telemedicine adoption is another key area to consider. Telemedicine, including virtual consultations, remote patient monitoring, and medication management, can significantly improve access to care, especially in rural areas. Practices that offer telemedicine options can extend their reach to patients who may face transportation barriers or have difficulty taking time off work. The effectiveness of telemedicine depends on factors such as the availability of reliable internet access, patient comfort with technology, and the integration of telemedicine platforms into the practice’s workflow. Practices that have embraced telemedicine are likely to demonstrate improved patient engagement and better blood pressure control rates.

Mental health resources are a crucial, often overlooked, component of hypertension management. Chronic stress and mental health conditions like anxiety and depression can contribute to elevated blood pressure. The availability of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed clinical social workers, within the community or through referral networks is essential. Practices that integrate mental health screenings and referrals into their hypertension management protocols demonstrate a more holistic approach to patient care. Collaboration between primary care physicians and mental health providers is vital for addressing the complex interplay between physical and mental well-being.

Analyzing the specific practices within 28622 requires detailed investigation. Identifying practices that consistently demonstrate high patient satisfaction scores, positive blood pressure control rates, and a commitment to preventive care is important. Reviewing online patient reviews, consulting with local community organizations, and contacting the practices directly can provide valuable insights. Examining the practice's website for information about services offered, staff credentials, and telemedicine capabilities is also essential.

The effectiveness of hypertension management is not solely dependent on the availability of physicians. Patient adherence to treatment plans, including medication adherence and lifestyle modifications, plays a critical role. Practices that offer patient education programs, provide support for medication adherence, and encourage regular follow-up appointments are more likely to achieve positive outcomes. The use of patient portals, which allow patients to access their medical records, communicate with their providers, and track their blood pressure readings, can also enhance patient engagement.

The challenge of managing hypertension in a rural setting such as Elk Park involves a combination of factors. Limited access to primary care physicians, the need for telemedicine solutions, and the integration of mental health resources all contribute to the overall picture. The practices that are most successful in this environment will be those that prioritize patient-centered care, embrace technology, and collaborate with other healthcare providers to address the complex needs of their patients.

Further analysis should include a review of the availability of support groups and community resources. Local pharmacies can be a valuable resource for blood pressure screenings and medication counseling. The involvement of community health workers, who can provide culturally sensitive education and support to patients, can also improve outcomes. Public health initiatives that promote healthy lifestyles and raise awareness about hypertension are also important.

The evaluation of primary care availability in Elk Park requires ongoing monitoring. Changes in physician staffing, the expansion of telemedicine services, and the development of new healthcare facilities can all impact access to care. Regularly updating the analysis with the latest data is essential to ensure its accuracy and relevance. The use of geographic information systems (GIS) can be particularly helpful in visualizing the distribution of healthcare resources and identifying areas with unmet needs.

In conclusion, assessing hypertension management in 28622, Elk Park, requires a multi-faceted approach. This includes analyzing physician-to-patient ratios, identifying standout practices, evaluating telemedicine adoption, and assessing the availability of mental health resources. The success of hypertension management depends on the collaboration of healthcare providers, patients, and the community.

To visualize the healthcare landscape in 28622, including physician locations, practice types, and access to resources, we recommend exploring the power of data visualization with CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome offers interactive mapping tools that can help you gain a deeper understanding of healthcare accessibility in your area.